Fort of St. Nicholas, Rhodes (must see)

The Fort of Saint Nicholas stands as a commanding presence over Mandráki Harbor, a site with a rich military history. Originally, in the 15th century, only a guard tower constructed by the Knights of Saint John occupied this location. Following the first siege of Rhodes, the tower was significantly fortified, eventually transforming into a robust stronghold that was later named after the chapel situated within its walls. This fortification played a crucial role in enabling the Knights Hospitaller to resist Turkish attacks for many years, including during major sieges in 1480 and again from 1522-23. While the initial Ottoman assault was repelled, the subsequent one in 1522 eventually led to the Knights being ousted from the city.

The fort's design was strategically planned to counter the Ottoman's use of cannons and other siege weapons, featuring thick walls that remained impervious for many years and still stand in excellent condition today. Currently, the Fort of Saint Nicholas is a major attraction, drawing visitors who are keen to explore its well-preserved structure. Visitors can enjoy a walk along the path where the moat once flowed—now a dry, scenic walkway lined with trees, providing a tranquil and picturesque experience of this historic site.